McCarty, 39, spent seven and a half seasons as a Celtics forward (from 1997 to 2005), also suiting up for the New York Knicks, Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Clippers during a 10-year career. Since his playing days ended following the 2005-06 season, he's served as an assistant coach for the Louisville Cardinals and Indiana Pacers.

In McCarty, Stevens added another voice likely to command respect within the locker room. The 6-10 forward earned his stripes as a role player, carving out a decade in the NBA despite averaging just 5.2 points per game.

The hiring likely puts the finishing touches on the Celtics coaching staff, which also includes Ron Adams, Jay Larranaga, Jamie Young and Micah Shrewsberry. Ronald Nored (player development) and Drew Cannon (statistical guru) will also serve within the organization.

Somewhere, Celtics broadcaster Tommy Heinsohn is probably rehearsing one of his favorite calls: